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Cardinal Quote by Hilary Mantel

“In these matters, the cardinal says, there is no measure of time; these spirits slip from our hands and through the ages, serpentine, mutable, sly.” quote by Hilary Mantel
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““In these matters, the cardinal says, there is no measure of time; these spirits slip from our hands and through the ages, serpentine, mutable, sly.””

Hilary Mantel

About This Quote

Source Novel: Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel, 2009

Time is intangible; spirits and ideas drift beyond our control, ever-changing and elusive.

In simple terms: Time cannot be measured; ideas slip away.

Key Takeaway

Accept uncertainty and adapt.

Themes

uncertainty change history

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • political intrigue
  • historical analysis
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

philosophy metaphor temporal fluidity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you handle unseen forces?
  • What strategies help when plans fail?
A Different Perspective

Time’s fluid nature challenges precise planning.

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